Video gaming system

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure generally relates to video gaming systems, which utilize a video game controller in electronic communication with a computing device. One embodiment includes a video gaming system, including a pair of video game controller input modules non-removably secured to a rigid, fixed length bridge section, a smart device holder attached to the rigid, fixed length bridge section, and a smart device secured by the smart device holder such that an entire back surface of the smart device lies fixed in a plane, wherein said plane is parallel to a front surface of the rigid, non-expandable bridge section.

BACKGROUND

The present invention is broadly concerned with gaming systems, and moreparticularly, mobile and cloud video gaming systems. As improvement intelecommunication technologies continue to progress, there has been ashift in how users utilize their computing devices, and particularly howusers utilize their smart phones. Historically, users have enjoyedplaying video games on either specialized, limited purpose counselgaming systems, or personal computers. In either case, lack of mobilityof these systems has been a drawback, i.e. an inability to enjoy playingvideo games selected from thousands of available video games anytime andanywhere has not been an option. With the advancements intelecommunication and Wi-Fi enabled mobile computing devices withenhanced computing power, such as smart phones, and increased bandwidthin wireless phone services, there has been a shift in the video gamingindustry from fixed location gaming to mobile gaming as well as cloudgaming. As this shift has occurred, a demand for improvedcharacteristics of mobile video game controllers has emerged, mostparticularly, improvements in ergonomics and/or interface capabilities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a video gaming system.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the videogaming system.

FIG. 3 illustrates a partial cutaway top perspective view of the secondembodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 2 , constructed inaccordance with various embodiments disclosed and claimed herein.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the second embodiment of the videogaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 5 shows a left side partial cutaway view in elevation of the secondembodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 6 displays a left side partial cutaway view in elevation of thesecond embodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 7 displays a right-side view in elevation of the second embodimentof the video gaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 8 depicts a top plan view of the second embodiment of the videogaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 9 depicts a plan view of a third embodiment of the video gamingsystem.

FIG. 10 illustrates a plan view of the third embodiment of the videogaming system depicting a partial cutaway revealing a clamp assembly ofeach of a pair of input modules of an electronic game control of thevideo gaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 shows a top perspective view of the third embodiment of thevideo gaming system of FIG. 9 depicting a power and data transfer cablecommunicating with each input module of the electronic video gamecontroller of the third embodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 9constructed in accordance with various embodiments disclosed and claimedherein.

FIG. 12 displays a partial cutaway front view in elevation of the clampassembly supported by the computing device of the third embodiment ofthe video gaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 13 displays a top view of a head portion of a clamp shaft of theclamp assembly of the third embodiment of the video gaming system ofFIG. 9 .

FIG. 14 shows a back plan view of a retention clip of the clamp assemblyof the third embodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 15 illustrates a front view in elevation of the third embodiment ofthe video gaming system of FIG. 9 , revealing a pair of retention clipsengaged with the clamp shaft, said retention clips mitigates verticaldisplacement of the clamp shaft relative to the computing device whilesaid retention clips facilitating rotation of the clamp shaft relativeto the computing device.

FIG. 16 shows a left side elevation view of a gaming headset configuredto interact with the third embodiment of the video gaming system of FIG.9 .

FIG. 17 shows a front view in elevation view of the gaming headset ofFIG. 16 , configured to interact with the third embodiment of the videogaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 18 shows a front view in elevation of a fourth embodiment of avideo gaming system.

FIG. 19 shows a front perspective plan view of the fourth embodiment ofa video gaming system of FIG. 18 , revealing a non-rigid,non-stretchable webbing secured to each of the pair of input modules ofthe video game controller.

FIG. 20 shows a bottom view in elevation of the video gaming system ofFIG. 19 , which reveals a hinged hatch provided by at least one of theinput modules.

FIG. 21 shows front view in elevation of a ball portion of a ball andreceiver latch, provided by at least one of the input modules of FIG. 20, said ball and receiver latch cooperate with the hinged hatch toconfine the hinged hatch in a closed position.

FIG. 22 shows a top plan view of the receiver portion of said ball andreceiver latch of FIG. 20 .

FIG. 23 shows a front plan view of a video game controller that supportsa smart device holder, the smart device holder is shown in a retractedposition.

FIG. 24 shows a front plan view of a video game controller that supportsa smart device holder, the smart device holder in an expanded position.

FIG. 25 shows a front plan view of a video game controller that supportsa smart device holder, the smart device holder in an expanded position,the smart device holder secures a smart device in noncontact adjacencyrelative to a pair of input modules.

FIG. 26 shows a bottom view in elevation of a video game controllersupporting a smart device holder, the smart device holder in an expandedposition, the smart device holder confines the smart device in a planeparallel to a plane that bifurcates the pair of input modules.

FIG. 27 shows a bottom view in elevation of a video game controller thatprovides a pair of input modules secured to a spring free rigid bridgesection.

FIG. 28 shows a front plan view of the video game controller of FIG. 27, which reveals the spring free rigid bridge section is collapsible Xframe spring free rigid bridge.

FIG. 29 shows a front plan view of the video game controller of FIG. 28, which reveals the smart device holder is tool free manually attachedto the spring free rigid bridge is a collapsible X frame spring freerigid bridge.

FIG. 30 shows a front plan view of the video game controller of FIG. 29, which reveals that each of the input modules is pinned to thecollapsible X frame spring free rigid bridge.

FIG. 31 shows a bottom view in elevation of the video game controller ofFIG. 30 , with a smart device holder attached thereon. The smart deviceholder is tool free manually attached to the video game controller, thecollapsible, X frame, spring free rigid bridge is formed from aplurality of struts pinned to the input modules and linked one to theother by way of a mechanical joint.

FIG. 32 shows a front view in elevation of a first member of themechanical joint of FIG. 31 to be a ball portion of a ball and socketjoint.

FIG. 33 shows a front view in elevation of a second member of themechanical joint of FIG. 31 to be a socket portion of a ball and socketjoint.

FIG. 34 shows a cross sectional view of the strut of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 35 shows a side view in elevation of the smart device of FIG. 25 ,in which the smart device may take the form of a smart phone, minitablet, tablet, or other wireless communication enabled device thatprovides a viewing screen.

FIG. 36 shows a front plan view of the video game controller of FIG. 30in its collapsed form.

FIG. 37 shows a bottom view in elevation of the video game controller ofFIG. 36 in its collapsed form with a smart device holder securedthereon. The smart device holder is manually attached to the video gamecontroller absence the use of tools. The collapsible X frame, springfree, rigid bridge is formed from a plurality of struts pinned to theinput modules and linked one to the other by way of a mechanical joint,the X frame spring free rigid bridge confines the smart device in aplane parallel to and vertically offset from a top face of the videogame controller.

FIG. 38 shows a side view in elevation of a first type strut of theplurality of struts in its extended form. The first type strut providesa rod portion and a cylinder portion. The rod portion provides anattachment aperture and a breather orifice. The cylinder portionprovides a seal portion (shown in partial cutaway by FIG. 39 ), a firstmember of the mechanical joint and a second attachment aperture. The rodportion is in sliding, frictional contact adjacency with the sealportion of the cylinder portion of the strut.

FIG. 39 shows a side view in elevation of the first type strut of FIG.38 in its contracted form.

FIG. 40 shows a side view in elevation of a second type strut of theplurality of struts in its extended form. The second type strut providesa rod portion and a cylinder portion. The rod portion provides anattachment aperture and a breather orifice. The cylinder portionprovides a seal portion, a second member of the mechanical joint and asecond attachment aperture.

FIG. 41 shows a side view in elevation of the second type strut of FIG.40 in its contracted form. In an embodiment of FIG. 40 , the rod portionis positioned internal to the cylinder portion and slides within thecylinder portion in friction contact adjacency with the seal portion ofthe cylinder portion of the second strut.

FIG. 42 shows a bottom plan view of the collapsible, X frame, springfree, rigid bridge, video game controller of FIG. 36 in the contractedform. The collapsible, X frame, spring free, rigid bridge, video gamecontroller provides a touch sensitive screen on each of the pair ofinput modules.

FIG. 43 shows a bottom plan view of the collapsible, X frame, springfree rigid bridge video game controller of FIG. 42 in its expanded form.The collapsible, X frame, spring free, rigid bridge, video gamecontroller provides a touch sensitive screen on each of the pair ofinput modules.

FIG. 44 shows a front plan view when a collapsible X frame spring freevideo game controller chassis in its expanded form.

FIG. 45 shows a front view in elevation of an input module attachmentrail of FIG. 44 .

FIG. 46 shoes a side view in elevation of the input module attachmentrail of FIG. 45 . The input module rail member provides a video gamecontroller input module retention notch.

FIG. 47 shows a cross-section view of the input module attachment railof FIG. 45 .

FIG. 48 shows a front plan view when the collapsible X frame spring freevideo game controller chassis in its expanded form of FIG. 44 with apair of input module attachment rails of FIG. 46 secured to each side ofthe collapsible, X frame, spring frame video game controller chassis.

FIG. 49 shows a front plan view when the collapsible, X frame, springfree, video game controller chassis in its expanded form of FIG. 48 anda pair of attachable and detachable video game input modules attached tothe pair of attachment rails.

FIG. 50 shows a front plan view when the collapsible, X frame, springfree, video game controller chassis (also referred to herein as acontroller chassis) with the input module attachment rails of FIG. 48secured thereon. The controller chassis with the attached attachmentrails secured thereon is presented in its contracted form.

FIG. 51 shows a top plan view of the controller chassis including themodule attachment rails secured thereon.

FIG. 52 shows a bottom plan view when the controller chassis in itscollapsed form with the input module attachment rails (also referred toherein as attachment rails) secured thereon, and the smart device holderseated in the controller chassis. The smart device holder is manuallyseated within the controller chassis without the use of tools.

FIG. 53 shows a back view in elevation of the controller chassisincluding the bottom struts secured thereon, and the attachment railssecured thereto.

FIG. 54 shows a left side view in elevation of the smart device holderof FIG. 53 in its retracted form.

FIG. 55 shows the left side view in elevation of the smart device holderof FIG. 54 in its expanded form. In a preferred embodiment a springmember is used to maintain the smart device holder in its retractedform. The spring member further allowing the smart device holder toextend to its expanded form, and with a smart device confined by thesmart device holder, the smart device holder provides a compressive loadon the smart device.

FIG. 56 shows a bottom plan view if the controller chassis in itscollapsed form with the input module attachment rails, of FIG. 51 ,attached thereon, and the smart device holder mounted on the chassis.The smart device holder is manually attached to the chassis. FIG. 56further shows partial cutaway revealing that the smart device holderprovides a retention barb, the controller chassis provides a retentionaperture. The retention aperture interacts with the retention barb tomaintain the smart device holder removably secured to the controllerchassis.

FIG. 57 shows a side view in elevation of the smart device.

FIG. 58 shows a bottom view in elevation of a left-side video game inputmodule.

FIG. 59 shows a bottom view in elevation of a right-side video gameinput module.

FIG. 60 shows a bottom view in elevation of each the left-side and theright-side video game input module slidingly secured to the controllerchassis, the smart device holder manually removably secured to thecontroller chassis. The smart device holder securing and maintaining thesmart device in a plane offset from and parallel to the top surface ofcontroller chassis.

FIG. 61 shows a side view in elevation of the smart device holder with awireless charger, such as the “MagSafe” wireless charger by Apple Inc.

FIG. 62 shows a top view of the smart device holder with a wirelesscharger secured thereon.

FIG. 63 shows a front plan view with the alternative video gamecontroller in its collapsed position, the smart device secured to thealternative video game controller by smart device holder. The smartdevice obscures the plurality of input devices including, but notlimited to, buttons joysticks, triggers 605, and a D pad of the pair ofvideo game controller input modules.

FIG. 64 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a video gaming system,which in a preferred embodiment features an operating system sensingcircuit.

FIG. 65 shows a block diagram power management and power pass throughcircuit, which includes a operating system detection circuit.

FIG. 66 is a block diagram of the operating system detection circuitthat includes an operating system detection integrated circuit mountedto a printed circuit board.

FIG. 67 shows a Wi-Fi enabled television set. The Wi-Fi enabledtelevision set provides a video game controller communication port.

FIG. 68 shows a bottom plan view of a cloud gaming controller of a cloudgaming system

FIG. 69 is a block diagram of a video game controller, said video gamecontroller includes a processor is with embedded operating systemdetection firmware.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure generally relates to a video gaming system, whichutilizes a video game controller in electronic communication with acomputing device, also referred to herein as a smart device. Smartdevices include, but are not limited to: smart phones, mini tabletcomputers, tablet computers as well as Wi-Fi enabled television sets.Preferably, the smart device includes an electronic video game loaded onto a processor of the smart device when the video gaming system isconfigured to play a video game. As those skilled in the art furtherclearly recognize that input signals, generated by the video gamecontroller, in response to an input action provided by a user of thevideo gaming system, causes a visual or audio response by the electronicvideo game, which is displayed on a display associated with the smartdevice or delivered by way of a speaker associated with the smartdevice. Accordingly, it is inherent that an operational video gamingsystem operates by way of a video game software program loaded into amemory portion of the smart device that interacts with the processor ofthe smart device. Further, for most video gaming systems, the video gamecontroller preferably includes a processor, which manages the functionsof the video game controller and interfaces with the processor of thesmart device. For the convenience of skilled artisans, sign lines usedin the accompanying drawings import a meaning. A sign line that providesa solid arrow and is accompanied by an underlined, bold text has themeaning of referring to the item in the drawing figure in its totality.As an example, FIG. 23 includes a sign number 600, which is shown in abold, underlined text associated with a sign line having a solid boldarrow and is referring to an invention in its totality, i.e., a videogaming system 600 (also referred to herein as a video gaming controller600). FIG. 23 further shows non-bold sign numbers associated witharrowed non-bold sign lines. This presentation designates an assemblelevel item included within the invention in its totality, such as, apair of video game controller input modules 604 and 606, or of a featuresuch as video game controller input module retention notch 910 of FIG.46 . A non-bold sign number associated with a non-arrowed sign linedesignates a component level item such the rigid, non-expandable bridgesection 608 of FIG. 23 .

Turning to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a power management and power passthrough circuit 100 (“PMPP”) of a first embodiment of a video gamingsystem 101. Said video gaming system 101, includes at least, but is notlimited to, a computing device 102, which provides at least a firstenergy storage device 104. The computing device 102 communicates with avideo game controller 106, said video game controller 106 provides atleast, but is not limited to, a second energy storage device 108 and aprocessor 110. Said PMPP 100 precludes a simultaneous bidirectionalcurrent flow between said computing device 102 and said video gamecontroller 106.

In a preferred embodiment, the communication between the computingdevice 102 and the video game controller 106 is achieved via a wiredconnection circuit 112, however as one skilled in the art understands,communication between the computing device 102 and the video gamecontroller 106 may be achieved wirelessly. The wired connection circuit112 preferably includes a power and signal cable 114 (also referred toherein as cable 114). Cable 114 preferably provides a connector 116,which is specifically configured to interface with an interfaceconnector 118, said interface connector 118 provides a predeterminednumber of contacts including, but not limited to, a power contact and aground contact.

As further shown by FIG. 1 , the video game controller 106 furtherprovides at least, but not by way of a limitation: a first current flowcontrol circuit 120; a second current flow control circuit 122; aunidirectional current flow circuit 124; a battery charge controlcircuit 126; a voltage present detection circuit 128; and an interfaceconnector 130. In a preferred embodiment, said interface connector 130presents a structurally similar structure to the interface connector118. The PMPP 100 still further preferably includes a computing devicecharger 132, and a charge cord 134. In a preferred embodiment, duringoperation of the video gaming system, the first energy storage device104 is connected in parallel with the second energy storage device 108of the video game controller 106. The first energy storage device 104and the second energy storage device 108 of the video game controllerare of a common voltage but are typically of different capacities.

Further in a preferred operating mode, when the computing device 102 isactivated and no voltage is detected by the voltage present detectioncircuit 128, the first current flow control circuit 120 is set toprovide power from the first energy storage device 104 of the computingdevice 102 to the processor 110 by way of the unidirectional currentflow circuit 124 and the second energy storage device 108. While thesecond current flow control circuit 122 is set to preclude power passagefrom the computing device charger 132 to the processor 110. When voltageis detected by the voltage present detection circuit 128, the firstcurrent flow control circuit 120 is set to preclude power from the firstenergy storage device 104 to the processor 110. The first energy storagedevice 104 is simultaneously set to receive power from the computerdevice charger 132 for charging the first energy storage device 104,which in a preferred embodiment is, but not by limitation, a battery.While the first energy storage device 104 is being charged, the secondenergy storage device 108, provides power to the processor 110 and thesecond current flow control circuit 122 is set to preclude power passagefrom the computing device charger 132 to the second energy storagedevice 108. However, during a charge cycle of the first energy storagedevice 104, and when the battery charge control circuit 126 detects thecharge level of the second energy storage device 108 to be at a firstpredetermined (e.g., lower) threshold, the battery charge controlcircuit 126 signals the processor 110, which in turn signals the secondcurrent flow control circuit 122 to change state from precluding powertransfer from the computing device charger 132 to the second energystorage device 108, to enabling power transfer from the computing devicecharger 132 to the second energy storage device 108. During the chargeprocess of the second energy storage device 108, when the battery chargecontrol circuit 126 detects the charge level of the second energystorage device 108 to be at a second predetermined (e.g., high)threshold, the battery charge control circuit 126 signals the processor110, which in turn signals the second current flow control circuit 122to change state from enabling power transfer from the computing devicecharger 132 to the second energy storage device 108 to precluding powertransfer from the computing device charger 132 to the second energystorage device 108. In a preferred embodiment, the unidirectionalcurrent flow circuit 124 precludes passage of current from the secondenergy storage device 108 to the first energy storage device 104. It isknown by those skilled in the art that a specifically designed ZenerDiode will fulfill this task by preventing voltage of said second energystorage device 108 (such as a battery or specialized capacitor) frombeing conducted to either said first energy storage device 104 or saidinterface connector 130. As will be appreciated by those skilled in theart, at least a portion of the functions being carried out by the PMPP100 described hereinabove may be carried out through the use of an ASIC(application specific integrated circuit), programed to carry out thefunctions disclosed herein above, and interacting with processor 110.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the videogaming system 200. The video gaming system 200 preferably includes atleast a computing device 202 supported by a stand 204 above a video gamecontroller 206. In a preferred embodiment the stand 204 includes asupport portion 208 linked to a cradle portion 210. The cradle portion210 confines and secures the computing device 202 during a user'soperation of the video gaming system 200.

The video game controller 206 is in electronic communication with saidcomputing device 202, and includes at least, but is not limited to, acover portion 212 and a base portion 214. The cover portion 212 whensecured to the base portion 214 forms a video game controller housing216 (also referred to herein as controller housing 216). The coverportion 212 provides a front edge 218, and an aperture 220 offset fromthe front edge 218.

FIG. 3 shows the support portion 208 of the stand 204 further preferablyprovides a boss 222 and a pocket 224. In this preferred embodiment, asshown by FIG. 5 , the aperture 220 is configured to confine and promotepassage of the support portion 208 through the cover portion 212. And asshown by FIG. 5 , the base portion 214 provides a retention pocket 226and a retention boss 228. Boss 222 (of FIG. 3 ) interacts with retentionpocket 226, the interaction between boss 222 and retention pocket 226constrains the support portion 208, within the aperture 220. Theinteraction of pocket 224 and retention boss 228, mitigates aninadvertent removal of the support portion 208 from aperture 220. It isnoted that in this second embodiment of the video gaming system 200, thestand 204 is removably secured to the video game controller housing 216absent the use of hardware, that is the stand 204 is manually pushedinto the aperture 220 to install the stand 204 to the video gamecontroller housing 216, and manually pulled out of the aperture 220 touninstall the stand 204 from the video game controller housing 216.

FIG. 4 further shows a top perspective view of the video gaming system200, in which the cover portion 212, provides a plurality of inputbutton apertures 230 which facilitates an interaction by the user with aplurality of input buttons 232 and a joystick 234. Each input button 232is confined by its corresponding input button aperture 230, and thejoystick 234 is confined by its corresponding input button aperture 230.

As shown by FIG. 7 , when the computing device 202 is confined by thecradle portion 210, and the stand 204 is secured by the controllerhousing 216, the computer device 202 overhangs at least a portion of thecover portion 212 and visually obscures a number of the plurality ofinput buttons 232 and the joystick 234, when the user is viewing the(mobile) video gaming system 200 from a top plan view vantage point asshown by FIG. 8 .

FIG. 8 further shows the computing device 202 has a length 240, greaterthan its width 242, and a display screen 245 secured to a back 246, andin which the stand 204 (of FIG. 7 ) is manually removably secured to thecontroller housing 216 upon full engagement of the support portionwithin the aperture 220 (of FIG. 4 ).

Returning to FIG. 7 , the support portion 208 provides a hinge member248, which corresponds to, and is in contact adjacency with, a hingemember 250 of the cradle portion 210. The corresponding hinge members(248 & 250) are linked one to the other by way if a hinge pin 252 (ofFIG. 4 ). The hinge pin 252 promotes an articulation of the cradleportion 210 relative to the support portion 208. The hinge pin 252interacts with provided mechanical hardware 254 (of FIG. 4 ) such thatwhen a desired angle between said support portion 208 and said cradleportion 210 is selected, the mechanical hardware 254 is engaged tomaintain said desired angle between the support portion 208 and thecradle portion 210. As further shown by FIG. 8 , the controller housing216 provides both right-side and left-side input module portions (255 &256 respectively). Each of the input module portions (255 & 256) hosts,as shown by FIG. 7 , a plurality of input mechanisms including, but notlimited to, buttons 232, joysticks 234, and triggers 258.

Returning to FIG. 4 , shown therein is an audio signal input/output port260 arranged at a transversal portion 262 of said controller housing216, said audio signal input/output port 260 is separate and distinctfrom a combined power input and audio signal input/output port 264 (ofFIG. 6 ) positioned on said front edge 218 (of FIG. 6 ). Additionally,FIG. 6 shows a printed circuit board assembly 266. The printed circuitboard assembly 266 is housed within the video game controller housing216. In this preferred embodiment, the printed circuit board assembly266 (of FIG. 8 ) provides a gaming processor 268 (of FIG. 8 ). Thegaming processor 268 is in electrical communication with: management andpower pass through PMPP 100 (of FIG. 1 ), said power management andpower pass through PMPP 100 communicating with said power input port270.

FIG. 9 shows a front view in elevation of a third embodiment of a videogaming system 300. The video gaming system 300, includes at least, butnot limited to, a computing device 302. The computing device 302provides at least a combined audio and data input/output port 304, aswell as a processor 306, and a transceiver device 308. The processor 306in electrical communication with each the combined audio and datainput/output port 304, and the transceiver device 308. The computingdevice 302 further provides a display screen 318, and a back cover 320(of FIG. 11 ). The back cover 320, encloses the processor 306 and issecured to the display screen 318. The securement of back cover 320 tothe display screen 318 forms an enclosed edge 322 (of FIG. 11 ) around aperimeter 324 (of FIG. 10 ) of the computing device 302. The perimeter324 includes at least two opposing sides 326 & 328, respectfully, ofFIG. 10 .

FIG. 10 additionally shows that the video gaming system 300, preferablyfurther includes a bridgeless video game controller 330 in electroniccommunication with the processor 306 (of FIG. 9 ). In this preferredembodiment, the bridgeless video game controller 330 provides a pair ofvideo game control modules 332 & 334 (of FIG. 9 ) respectfully. Eachvideo game control module 332 or 334 is secured to a side of the twoopposing sides 326 & 328, and each video game control module (332 or334) is supported by the computing device 302, rather than the pair ofvideo game control modules 332 & 334 supporting the computing device302.

The (mobile) video gaming system 300, which preferably includes thebridgeless (electronic) video game controller 330 supported by thecomputing device 302 further includes and interacts with an audioheadset 336 (of FIGS. 16 & 17 ). The bridgeless (electronic) video gamecontroller 330 is in direct, wired electronic communication with theprocessor 306 by way of the combination audio and data input/output port304 of said computing device 302, and a combination audio and datainput/output port 305 of the bridgeless (electronic) video gamecontroller 330.

As shown by FIG. 11 , the pair of video game control modules 332 & 334of the bridgeless (electronic) video game controller 330 preferablyincludes at least a right-side input module portion 338, a left-sideinput module portion 340, and a tension free combination power and datacommunication cable 342 (also referred to herein as tension free cable342). The tension free cable 342 is disposed between the right-side andleft-side input module portions 338 & 340. The tension free cable 342facilitates both data and power transfer between the right-side andleft-side input module portions 338 & 340. The tension free cable 342provides no structural support for neither said right-side nor saidleft-side input module portions 338 & 340.

As shown by FIG. 10 , the video game controller 330, utilizes a pair ofclamp assemblies, i.e., a right-side clamp assembly 344 and a left-sideclamp assembly 346. The right-side clamp assembly 344 is secured to andindependently interacts with the right-side input module portion 338while the left-side clamp assembly 346 is secured to and independentlyinteracts with the left-side input module portion 340. The right sideand left side clamp assemblies 344 & 346, in unison, cooperativelyattach and secure the bridgeless (electronic) video game controller 330to the computing device 302, wherein the computing device 302 providesall structural support for each the right-side input module portion 338and said left-side input module portion 340 by way of the correspondingright-side clamp assembly 344 and left-side clamp assembly 346.

As further shown by FIG. 11 , each right-side input module portion 338and left-side input module portion 340 include at least, but are notlimited to, a top enclosure (348 & 352) and a corresponding bottomenclosure (350 & 354), each top enclosure and a corresponding bottomenclosure join to form corresponding input module housing (356 & 358).As further shown by FIG. 10 , the (mobile) video gaming system 300,wherein the right-side and left-side input module portions 338 & 340provide a plurality of input devices including, but not limited to,buttons 360, joysticks 362, and triggers 364.

FIG. 12 shows the right-side clamp assembly 344, while FIG. 15 shows theleft-side clamp assembly 346, each of which are formed from a common setof components. The common set of components include, but are not limitedto, a force translation shaft 366 secured to the right-side input moduleportion 338 (of FIG. 10 ), else the left side input module portion 340Of FIG. 10 ), by a retention clip 368 as shown in FIG. 10 . Theretention clip 368 provides a mounting portion 370 and a securementportion 372 as shown by FIG. 14 . The mounting portion 370 is secured tothe input module housing (356 or 358), while securement portion 372interacts with a retention grove 374, which is provided by the forcetranslation shaft 366. The securement portion 372 precludes a verticaltranslation of the force translation shaft 366, relative to itscorresponding input module portion (338 or 340), while promotingrotation of the force translation shaft 366 relative to itscorresponding input module portion (338 or 340).

FIG. 15 reveals an actuation knob 376 communicating with a multi sidedhead portion 378 of the force translation shaft 366, and a pair of jaws(380 & 382) communicating with the force translation shaft 366. The pairof jaws (380 & 382) are responsive to a rotational input force appliedto the actuation knob 376. The pair of jaws (380 & 382) facilitateattachment of each the right-side input module portion 338, and theleft-side input module portion 340 to the computing device 302. A topplan view of an embodiment of the multi sided head portion 378 is shownby FIG. 13 .

FIG. 15 further reveals that the force translation shaft 366 presents aleft-hand 383 thread on a proximal end and a corresponding right-handthread 385 on an opposing distal end, such that when a clockwiserotation is applied to said force translation shaft 366, said pair ofjaws (380 & 382) advance toward one another thereby closing said pair ofjaws (380 & 382) onto said computing device 302, further when acounter-clockwise rotation is applied to said force translation shaft366, said pair of jaws (380 & 382) retract from one another therebyopening said pair of jaws (380 & 382) from said computing device 302permitting removal of said corresponding video game control modules (344& 346 of FIG. 112 ) from said computing device 302.

FIGS. 16 & 17 show an audio headset 336 includes at least, but notlimited to, a right-hand speaker 384 and a left-hand speaker 386, eachright-hand and left-hand speakers (384 & 386) are housed within acorresponding right-hand and left-hand speaker housing (388 & 390). In apreferred embodiment, a head band 392 is disposed between and secured toeach the right-hand and left-hand speaker housings (388 & 390).

FIG. 17 reveals a power and audio input communication port 394 providedby the right-hand speaker housing 388, else provided by the left-handspeaker housing 390. An audio input/output cable 396, shown in FIG. 16 ,the audio input/output cable 396 provides a first connector 398 and asecond connector 400, the second connector 400 distil from the firstconnector 398, the first connector 398 interacts with an input/outputcommunication port 402 of FIG. 17 , else the second connector 400interacts with the input/output communication port 402.

FIG. 17 further reveals a combination power and audio input port 404provided by the right-hand speaker housing 388, else provided by theleft-hand speaker housing 390; an energy storage device 406 housed bythe right-hand speaker housing 388 else housed by the left-hand speakerhousing 390, the energy storage device 406 interacts with thecombination power and audio input port 404 and a charging cable 408configured for connection to the combination power and audio input port404 when the energy storage device 406 is charging.

Returning to FIG. 16 , shown therein is a microphone 409 configured forconnection to: the power and audio input communication port 394 (of FIG.17 ); an audio processor 410; and a transceiver device 412. The audioprocessor 410 and the transceiver device 412 are configured to cooperatewith the corresponding processor 306 (of FIG. 9 ) and the transceiverdevice 308 (of FIG. 9 ) of the computing device 302 (of FIG. 9 ).

FIG. 18 shows a mobile video gaming system 500 that includes at least,but not limited to, a computing device 502. The computing device 502presents a fixed length 504 greater than its width 506, said computingdevice 502 provides a first combination data/power connector 508. Afirst video game control module 510 provides a second combinationdata/power connector 512. The second combination data/power connector512 is in electronic communication with the first combination data/powerconnector 508, thereby facilitating passage of data and power and audiosignals between said first video game control module 510 and thecomputing device 502. The mobile video gaming system 500 preferablyfurther includes a second video game control module 514 in electroniccommunication with the first video game control module 510, and anon-elastic, fixed length, flexible strap (“Strap”) 516 (of FIG. 19 )disposed between and secured directly to each the first video gamecontrol module 510 and the second video game control module 514. In apreferred embodiment, the Strap 516 includes two layers of webbing witha power and data conductor 517, sandwiched between the two layers ofwebbing.

FIG. 19 further shows that upon securement of the strap 516 to each thefirst video game control module 510 and the second video game controlmodule 514, neither the strap 516, nor the first video game controlmodule 510, nor the second video game control module 514 facilitate anyadjustment to accommodate a length of a computing device different thanthe fixed length 504 of the computing device 502.

Continuing with FIG. 19 , in which the first video game control module510 further provides a power input port 518 and an audio signal port520. The power input port 518 facilitates transfer of power from anexternal charger to a battery 522 (of FIG. 18 ) of the computing device502 (of FIG. 18 ), and the audio signal port 520 facilitates transfer ofaudio signals between an audio processor 524 (of FIG. 18 ) (such asCmedia's CM6206 audio codec chip) of the computing device 502 and anexternal audio device (such as the audio headset 336 of FIG. 16 ).

As shown by FIG. 20 , the second video game control module 514 providesa hinged hatch 526 and a latch 528, the hinged hatch 526 interacts withthe latch 528. The interaction of the hinged hatch 526 with the latch528 confines and restrains the computing device 502 (of FIG. 18 ) withinthe first video game control module 510 and said second video gamecontrol module 514. In a preferred embodiment, the latch 528 includes atleast, but is not limited to, two components: a ball 560, which issecured to the hinged hatch 526 and a receiver 562, which is secured toa strap restaurant member 564 of the second video game control module514. FIG. 21 shows a front view in elevation of the ball 560, while FIG.22 shows a top plan view of the receiver 562. FIG. 23 shows a front planview of an (alternate) video game controller 600, which supports a smartdevice holder 602. The smart device holder 602 is shown in its retractedposition, while FIG. 24 shows the smart device holder 602 is shown inits expanded form. In a preferred embodiment of the video gamecontroller 600, a pair of video game controller input modules 604 and606 are joined one to the other by way of a rigid, non-expandable bridgesection 608.

As shown by FIG. 25 , the video game controller 600 supports the smartdevice holder 602, which in turn secures a smart device 610 innoncontact adjacency relative to a pair of video game controller inputmodules, 604 and 606. The term smart device refers to all classes ofWi-Fi enabled computers, Wi-Fi enabled cell phones, and Wi-Fi enabledtelevision sets, wherein said Wi-Fi enabled computers, Wi-Fi enabledcell phones, and Wi-Fi enabled television sets each have imbeddedoperating systems.

FIG. 26 shows a bottom view in elevation of the video game controller600 supporting the smart device holder 602. The smart device holder 602secures and confines the smart device 610 in a fixed position, elevatedabove and lying in a plane 612 (as shown in dashed line form) parallelto a plane 614 (as shown in dashed line form). The plane 614 bifurcatesthe pair of video game controller input modules 604 and 606 and therigid, non-expandable bridge section 608. The rigid, non-expandablebridge section joins together the pair of video game controller inputmodules 604 and 606. FIG. 26 further shows the smart device holder 602includes a cradle portion 616 non-movably affixed perpendicular to astand portion 618, wherein the stand portion is joined to the video gamecontroller 600 such that the stand portion 618 is perpendicular to eachof the planes 612 and 614, and the cradle portion 616 is affixedperpendicular to the stand portion 618.

FIG. 27 shows a bottom view in elevation of an (alternative) video gamecontroller 700 (also referred to herein as a video gaming system 700).The video game controller 700 includes an expandable, spring free, rigidbridge section 702, and a pair of video game input modules, 704 and 706non-removably secured (i.e., non-removably coupled) to the expandable,spring free, rigid bridge section 702. Non-removably secured (ornon-removably pinned, non-removably fastened, etc.) can include, forexample, being unable to be removed without the use of tools, fixedlysecured, integral, etc. Likewise, the term spring free describesattributes of, for example, the rigid bridge section 702 operatingwithout the use of a spring to provide the expandability to the rigidspring section 702. FIG. 27 further shows that at least one of the videogame input modules 704 and 706, provides a power passthrough port 705and an audio jack input port 707. The power passthrough port 705conducts current from an external source to a smart device, such assmart device 610 of FIG. 26 , when the smart device 610 is electricallyconnected to the power passthrough port 705. The audio jack input port707 conducts audio signals to an audio headset, such as audio headset336 of FIG. 16 , when the audio headset 336 is plugged into the audiojack input port 707.

FIG. 28 shows a front plan view of the video game controller 700 of FIG.27 , which reveals that the spring free rigid bridge section 702 is acollapsible, X frame, spring free, rigid bridge section 702 (alsoreferred to herein as bridge section 702). Preferably, as shown by FIG.30 , the bridge section 702, is formed from a plurality of top struts708 and bottom struts 710. The top struts 708 and the bottom struts 710are pinned, by way of a respective connection pin 714 to: each of a kingpost 712 of the bridge section 702 on a proximal end; and to arespective one of the pair of video game controller input modules 604and 606 on a distal end. FIG. 28 further shows that each of the videogame controller input modules 704 and 706 (also referred to herein asinput modules 704 and 706) provide a plurality of input devicesincluding, but not limited to, buttons 601, joysticks 603, triggers 605,and a D pad 607.

FIG. 29 reveals the smart device holder 602 includes a spring member 716enclosing a spring guide shaft 717. Spring member 716 is used tomaintain the smart device holder 602 in its retracted form. The springmember 716 further allowing the smart device holder 602 to extend to itsexpanded form upon an application of a lateral force. The smart deviceholder 602, as shown by FIG. 29 , is in its extended form. In apreferred embodiment of the (alternative) video game controller 700, thesmart device holder 602, is manually attached to the king post 712 ofFIG. 28 , absent the need for or use of tools. The stand portion 618 (ofFIG. 26 ) of the smart device holder 602 (of FIG. 26 ) insertsvertically into a securement aperture 718 (each of FIG. 30 ) of the kingpost 712. FIG. 30 more clearly shows the top struts 708 and bottomstruts 710 are pinned, by way of a connection pin 714, to each a kingpost 712 on a proximal end, and to each of the pair of video gamecontroller input modules 604 and 606 on a distal end. FIG. 30 furtherincludes a front surface 713 surrounding the securement aperture 718.

FIG. 31 shows a bottom view in elevation of the video game controller700 of FIG. 30 in which the smart device holder 602 is manually attachedto the king post 712, the attachment made absence the use of tools. FIG.31 further shows the collapsible, X frame, spring free, rigid bridge 702is formed from the plurality of top struts 708 and bottom struts 710pinned to the input modules 604 and 606 as well as to the king post 712.The top struts 708 and bottom struts 710 are linked one to the other byway of a mechanical joint 720. In a preferred embodiment the mechanicaljoint 720 is a referred to as a ball and socket joint 720.

FIG. 32 shows a bottom view in elevation of a preferred embodiment inwhich a first member 722 of the ball and socket joint 720 of FIG. 31 isa ball portion of the ball and socket joint 720.

FIG. 33 shows a bottom view in elevation of a preferred embodiment inwhich a second member 724 of the ball and socket joint 720 of FIG. 31 isa socket portion of the ball and socket joint 720.

FIG. 34 shows a cross sectional view of struts 708, 710 of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 35 a side view in elevation of a smart device 726, which may takethe form of a smart phone, mini tablet, tablet, or other wirelesscommunication enabled device which provides a viewing screen. Forpurposes of illustration, the smart device 726 is shown ad a minitablet, which has at least a length greater than a length of the smartdevice 610 of FIG. 31 .

FIG. 36 shows a front plan view of video game controller 700 of FIG. 30in its collapsed form, with the pair of video game controller inputmodules 604 and 606 secured thereon.

FIG. 37 shows a bottom view in elevation of the video game controller700 in its collapsed form, the smart device holder 602 manually attachedto the collapsible, X frame, spring free, rigid bridge 702, and thesmart device 610 secured to the collapsible, X frame, spring free, rigidbridge 702 by way of the smart device holder 602. In this configuration,as shown by FIG. 37 , the smart device 610 obscures the plurality ofinput devices of FIG. 28 including, but not limited to, buttons 601,joysticks 603, triggers 605, and a D pad 607 of the pair of video gamecontroller input modules 604 and 606. The obscurement of the inputdevices is further shown by FIG. 63 .

FIG. 38 shows a side view in elevation of the top strut 708 of theplurality of struts in its extended form. The top strut 708 provides arod portion 728 and a cylinder portion 730. The rod portion 728 providesan attachment aperture 731 and a breather orifice 732. The cylinderportion 730 provides a seal portion 734 (shown in partial cutaway byFIG. 39 ), and the first member 722 of the mechanical joint 720 (of FIG.31 ) and a second attachment aperture 736. In a preferred embodiment,the rod portion 728 is in slidable, frictional contact adjacency withthe seal portion 734 of the cylinder portion 730 of the strut 708. Theseal portion 734 is formed on an internal surfaces of the cylinderportion 730.

FIG. 39 shows the top strut 708 of FIG. 38 in its contracted form.

FIG. 40 shows the bottom strut 710 of the plurality of the plurality ofbottom struts 710 in its extended form. The bottom strut 710 providesthe rod portion 728 and a cylinder portion 738. The rod portion 728provides the attachment aperture 731 and the breather orifice 732. Thecylinder portion 738 provides a seal portion 734, the second member 724of the mechanical joint 720 (of FIG. 31 ) and the second attachmentaperture 736.

FIG. 41 shows the bottom strut 710 strut of FIG. 40 in its contractedform. In an embodiment of FIG. 40 the rod portion 728 resides internalto the cylinder portion 738 and is in slidable, frictional contactadjacency with the seal portion 734 of the cylinder portion 738 of thebottom strut 710. In a preferred embodiment the seal portion 734 ifformed from a plurality of O-rings 740.

FIG. 42 shows a bottom plan view of a video game controller 750. Thevideo game controller 750 is structurally, mechanically comparable tothe video game controller 600, with the addition of a pair of touchsensitive screens 802, secured to a back side of their respective inputmodules 604 and 606. As with video game controller 600, the inputmodules 604 and 606 are non-removably secured to the rigid,non-expandable bridge section 608, and the smart device holder 602secures and maintains the smart device 610 in a fixed position, elevatedabove and lying in a plane, elevated above, offset from, and parallel tothe top surface 621, of the rigid, non-expandable bridge section, 608.The pair of touch sensitive screens 802 are in electrical communicationwith and mechanically secured to their respective video game controllerinput modules 604 and 606. The output signal of each touch sensitiveresponds in a plurality of ways, depending on a direction of a swipe (upor down vertically, of back or forth horizontally). Additionally,tapping on a top portion, or a bottom portion of the screen generates onalternate single type than at obtained by a directionally centric swipe.

FIG. 43 shows a bottom plan view of the collapsible, X frame, springfree, rigid bridge, video game controller 800 (also referred to hereinas a video gaming system 800), in its expanded form and providing thepair of touch sensitive screens 802 on each of the pair of video gamecontroller input modules 604 and 606. The pair of touch sensitivescreens 802 are in electrical communication with and mechanicallysecured to their respective video game controller input modules 604 and606.

FIG. 44 shows a front plan view if a collapsible, X frame, spring free,video game controller chassis 900 (also referred to herein as chassis900). Chassis 900 is depicted in its expanded form and includes theplurality of top struts 708 and bottom struts 710 pinned, by way of aconnection pin 714, to each the king post 712 on a proximal end and toeach of a pair of module support struts 902 on the distal end.

FIG. 45 shows a front view in elevation of an input module attachmentrail 904, which presents at least one mounting aperture 903 (threeshown). The mounting aperture(s) 903 promotes attachment of the inputmodule attachment rail 904 to the module support strut 902.

FIG. 46 shows a side view in elevation of the input module attachmentrail 904 of FIG. 45 . The input module attachment rail 904 provides avideo game controller input module retention notch 910.

FIG. 47 shows a cross-section view in elevation of the input moduleattachment rail 904 of FIG. 45 .

FIG. 48 shows a front plan view if the chassis 900 in its expanded formwith a pair of input module attachment rails 904 of FIG. 46 secured tothe module support struts 902.

FIG. 49 shows a front plan view if the chassis 900 of FIG. 48 in itsexpanded form with a pair of manually attachable and detachable videogame input modules 906 and 908, slidingly attached to each of theircorresponding input module attachment rails 904 of FIG. 46 . In apreferred embodiment the pair of manually attachable and detachablevideo game input modules 906 and 908 are wireless manually attachableand detachable video game input modules 906 and 908

FIG. 50 shows a front plan view of the chassis 900 with attached inputmodule attachment rails 904 of FIG. 48 . The chassis 900 is shown in itscontracted form.

FIG. 51 shows a top plan view of the chassis 900 with input moduleattachment rails 904 secured thereon. FIG. 50 further shows that eachinput module attachment rail 904 provides a pair of module restraints905. The module restraints 905 secure the pair of manually attachableand detachable video game input modules 906 and 908 adjacent the pair ofmodule support struts 902 of the chassis 900 as shown by FIG. 60 .

FIG. 52 shows a bottom plan view of the chassis 900 in its collapsedform with the input module attachment rails 904 attached thereon. FIG.52 further depicts the smart device holder 602 that includes the cradleportion 616. The smart device holder 602 is non-removably secured to astand portion 618. The stand portion 618 is joined to the king post 712of the chassis 900 such that the stand portion 618 is perpendicular toeach of the king post 712 and the cradle portion. The smart deviceholder 602 is manually attached to the king post 712 portion of thechassis 900 absence the use of tools.

FIG. 53 shows a back view in elevation of the chassis 900 with inputmodule attachment rails 904 secured thereon. FIG. 53 further shows thateach bottom strut 710 is secured to its respective module support struts902 of the chassis 900 by way of way of corresponding connection pins714.

FIG. 54 shows a left side view in elevation of the smart device holder602 of FIG. 52 in its retracted form.

FIG. 55 shows the left side view in elevation of the smart device holder602 of FIG. 54 in its expanded form. In a preferred embodiment thespring member 716 enclosing the spring guide shaft 717 and applies atension force between a fixed smart device stop 615 and a movable smartdevice stop 617. The spring member 716 maintains the smart device holder602 in its retracted form. The spring member 716 further allowing thesmart device holder 602 to extend to its expanded form and hold a smartdevice such as the smart device 726 of FIG. 35 under a compressive load.

FIG. 56 shows a bottom plan view of chassis 900 in its collapsed formwith the input module attachment rails 904 of FIG. 50 , attachedthereon. FIG. 56 further shows the stand portion 618 of the smart deviceholder 602 attached to the king post 712. The smart device holder 602 istool free manually attached to the king post 712 of the chassis 900. Apartial cutaway of the king post 712 shows the stand portion 618 of thesmart device holder 602 provides a retention barb 912, and the king post712 of the chassis 900 provides a retention aperture 914. An interactionof the retention barb 912 protruding through the retention aperture 914to maintain the smart device holder 602 removably secured to the chassis900.

FIG. 57 shows a side view in elevation of the smart device 610.

FIG. 58 shows a bottom view in elevation of a left-side video game inputmodule 906.

FIG. 59 shows a bottom view in elevation of a right-side video gameinput module 908.

FIG. 60 shows a bottom view in elevation of each the left-side andright-side video game input modules 906 and 908 are slidingly secured tothe input module attachment rails 904 of the chassis 900. The smartdevice holder 602, is manually removably secured to the controllerchassis 900. The smart device holder 602 secures and maintains the smartdevice 610 in a fixed position, elevated above and lying in a plane 612(as shown in dashed line form) parallel to a plane 614 (as shown indashed line form). The plane 614 bifurcates the pair of video game(controller) input modules 906 and 908, and the king post 712. FIG. 60further shows a wireless charger connection port 916. The wirelesscharger connection port 916 conducts current from an external source toa wireless charger 918 shown by FIGS. 61 and 62 .

FIG. 61 shows a side view in elevation of the smart device holder 602with a wireless charger 918 secured thereon. In a preferred embodiment,the wireless charger 918, such as the “MagSafe” wireless charger byApple Inc., is secured to the movable smart device stop 617.

FIG. 62 shows a top view of the smart device holder 6 t 02 with awireless charger 918 secured thereon.

FIG. 63 shows a front plan view with the (alternative) video gamecontroller 700 in its collapsed position, the smart device 610 securedto the video game controller 700 by smart device holder 602. In apreferred embodiment, the smart device 610 obscures the plurality ofinput devices including, but not limited to, buttons 601, joysticks 603,triggers 605, and a D pad 607 of the pair of video game controller inputmodules 604 and 606 each of FIG. 28 . FIG. 63 further shows that asignal cable 611 transmits input signals from the video game controller700 to the smart device 610. The signal cable 611 includes a firstconnector 613 secured to the fixed smart device stop 615 of the smartdevice holder 602, and a second connector 619 plugged into the smartdevice 610.

A video game controller, such as video game controller 600, whichincludes a pair of video game control modules, such as 604 and 606,non-removably secured to a rigid, non-expandable bridge section, such as608, is provided. Then a stand portion, such as 618, of a smart deviceholder, such as 602, is manually pushed through a securement aperture,such as 609, of a rigid, non-expandable bridge section, such as 608. Aretention barb, such as 912, of a stand portion, such as 618, of a smartdevice holder, such as 602, precludes an inadvertent removal of a smartdevice holder, such as 602, from a rigid, non-expandable bridge section,such as 608. When seating of a smart device stand, such as 602, into arigid, non-expandable bridge section, such as 608 is complete, a smartdevice, such as 610, is affixed to a cradle portion, such as 616, of asmart device holder such as 602, and connected electrically to a videogame controller, such as video game controller 600, by way of a signalcable, such as 611. When a smart device, such as 610, is affixed to asmart device holder, such as 602, a smart device, such as 610, lies in aplane, such as 612, elevated above, offset from, and parallel to a topsurface, such as 621, of a rigid, non-expandable bridge section, such as608.

A video game controller, such as video game controller 700, whichincludes a pair of video game control modules, such as 704 and 706,pined to an expandable, spring free, rigid bridge section, such as 702,by a plurality of securement pins, such as 714, is provided. In apreferred embodiment a stand portion, such as 618, of the smart deviceholder, such as 612, is vertically inserted through a securementaperture, such as 718, of a king post, such as king post 712, of anexpandable, spring free, rigid bridge section, such as 702 and securedwithin a king post, such as king post 712. Then, a smart device, such as610, is affixed to a cradle portion, such as 616, of a smart deviceholder such as 602, and connected electrically to a video gamecontroller, such as video game controller 600, by way of a signal cable,such as 611. When a smart device, such as 610, is affixed to a smartdevice holder, such as 602, a smart device, such as 610, lies in aplane, such as 612, elevated above, offset from, and parallel to a frontsurface, such as 713, of a king post, such as king post 712.

A collapsible, X frame, spring free, video game controller, chassis,such as 900, includes a plurality of top struts, such as top strut 708,and a plurality of bottom struts, such as bottom strut 710. A proximalend of each top strut and each bottom strut are preferably pinned to aking portion, such as king post 712 of an X frame, spring free, videogame controller, chassis, such as 900 by a connection pin, such as 714.The term spring free above describes attributes of, for example, chassis900 operating without the use of a spring to provide the collapsibilityto the chassis 900. While a distal end of each top strut and each bottomstrut are preferably pinned, by way of a connection pin, such as 714, toa pair of module support struts, such as module support struts 902 of anX frame, spring free, video game controller, chassis, such as 900. Nextan input module attachment rail, such as input module attachment rail904, is secured to each respective module support struts, such as modulesupport struts 902, and a pair of wireless video game input modules,such as video game input modules 906 and 908, are manually removablysecured to their respective module attachment rail, such as input moduleattachment rail 904.

FIG. 64 shows a block diagram power management and power pass throughcircuit 100 (“PMPP”), which includes a operating system detectioncircuit 920 of an embodiment of a video gaming system 922. Said videogaming system 922, includes at least, but is not limited to, a processor924, which provides at least a computing portion 926 and a memoryportion 928. The video gaming system 922 further includes an energystorage device 104 within a computing device 102, while a video gamecontroller 930 provides a second energy storage device 108. Saidprocessor 924 communicates with a video game controller 930, said videogame controller 930 provides at least, but is not limited to, a secondenergy storage device 108. Said PMPP 100 precludes a simultaneousbidirectional current flow between said computing device 102 and saidvideo game controller 930.

In a preferred embodiment, the communication between the computingdevice 102 and the video game controller 930 is achieved via a wiredconnection circuit 112, however as one skilled in the art understands,communication between the computing device 102 and the video gamecontroller 930 may be achieved wirelessly. The wired connection circuit112 preferably includes a power and signal cable 114 (also referred toherein as cable 114). Cable 114 preferably provides a connector 116,which is specifically configured to interface with an interfaceconnector 118, said interface connector 118 provides a predeterminednumber of contacts including, but not limited to, a power contact and aground contact.

In a preferred embodiment, stored the memory portion 928 of theprocessor 924 is a plurality of video game centric operating systems(also known as multiple sets of firmware) for use in operating the videogame controller 930, and controlling the interface between a pluralityof input devices such as buttons 232 and a joystick 234 (FIG. 4 ) andcomputing device 102 Each set of firmware of the multiple sets offirmware is specific to an operating system of the computing device 102(also referred to herein as a smart device 102).

Examples of firmware sets include: iOS compatible firmware compatiblewith Apple's iOS operating system (iOS is a proprietary mobile operatingsystem that runs on mobile devices such as the iPhone, iPaq, iPodTouch); Android compatible firmware compatible with Google's AndroidOperating System, which is software developed by Google and thencustomized for various smart devices; or Mobil Linux compatible firmwarecompatible with Mobil Linux operating system (Mobil Linux is anoperating system for smart devices and is an open source OperatingSystem).

In an operation of an embodiment of a video gaming system, such as videogaming system 922, multiple different sets of firmware are preloadedinto the memory portion 928 of the processor 924. Upon connection to acomputing device, such as computing device 102, by a connection circuit,such as connection circuit 112, a operating system detection circuit,such as operating system detection circuit 920, determines the operatingsystem being utilized by the connected computing device, such ascomputing device 102. In a preferred embodiment, the operating systemdetection circuit 920 analysis interface connector 118, which provides apredetermined number of contacts including, but not limited to, a powercontact and a ground contact. Based on the physical location of thosecontacts presented by interface connector, the operating systemdetection circuit 920, directs the computing portion 926 of theprocessor 924 as to which video game controller operating system storedin the memory portion 928 of the processor is to be used to effectuatecommunication with the computing device 102.

FIG. 65 is a block diagram of the operating system detection circuit920. Included by the operating system detection circuit 920 is a printedcircuit board 932/266 shown as s separate printed circuit board, whichmechanically communicates with printed circuit board assembly 266 (ofFIG. 6 ). However, in a preferred embodiment an operating systemdetection integrated circuit 938 is mounted on a printed circuit boardassembly 932/266. The operating system detection integrated circuit 938is in electrical communication with the processor 924. The printedcircuit board assembly 932/266 is housed within a cloud gamingcontroller housing 1018 (of FIG. 66 ). The operating system detectionintegrated circuit 938 is further in both mechanical and in electricalcommunication with the interface connector 118 of the as connectioncircuit 112, as shown by FIG. 63 , which mechanically and electricallycommunicate the computing device 102.

The wired connection circuit 112, communicates power and signals betweenthe computing device 102 and the video game controller 106. The wiredconnection circuit 112 preferably includes a power and signal cable 114(also referred to herein as cable 114). Cable 114 preferably provides afirst interface connector 116 on a first end, which is specificallyconfigured to interface with the computing device 102, and a secondinterface connector 118, which is specifically configured to interfacewith the video game controller 106. Interface connector 118, provides apredetermined number of contacts including, but not limited to, a powercontact, a ground contact, and at least a signal contact.

FIG. 66 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a cloud gamingcontroller 1012 of a video gaming system 1002 configured for use with asmart device, such as a Wi-Fi enabled television set 1022 (also referredto herein as Wi-Fi TV 722) (of FIG. 67 ). The Wi-Fi TV 1022 preferablyincludes at least a support stand 1024 and provides a video gamecontroller communication port 1026.

The cloud gaming controller 1012 is in electronic communication withsaid Wi-Fi TV 1022, and includes at least, but is not limited to, acover portion 1014 and a base portion 1016. The cover portion 1014 whensecured to the base portion 1016 forms a cloud gaming controller housing1018 (also referred to herein as controller housing 1018). The coverportion further provides an aperture 1020 offset from a front edge 1030of the cover portion 1014.

In a preferred embodiment, communication between the Wi-Fi TV 1022 andthe cloud gaming controller 1012 is achieved via a wired connectioncircuit 1004, however as one skilled in the art understands,communication between the Wi-Fi TV 1022 and the cloud gaming controller1012 may be achieved wirelessly. The wired connection circuit 1004preferably includes a power and signal cable 1006 (also referred toherein as cable 1006). Cable 1006 preferably provides a connector 1008,which is specifically configured to interface with a cloud gamingcommunication port 1026 (of FIG. 67 ) as well as an interface connector1010. Said interface connector 1010 provides a predetermined number ofcontacts including, but not limited to, a power contact and a groundcontact. The interface connector 1010 is specifically configured tointerface with a mating connector 940 (of FIG. 65 ). Said matingconnector 940 is mounted on the printed circuit board 932/266 (of FIG.65 ), and mechanically and electronically communicate with the operatingsystem detection integrated circuit 938 (of FIG. 65 ).

Further shown by FIG. 66 is a cloud gaming activation button 1028adjacent aperture 1020. An activation of the cloud gaming activationbutton 1028 signals the Wi-Fi TV 1022 to establish a communication linkwith the cloud to gain access to a plethora of video game stored in thecloud and compatible with the cloud gaming controller 1012.

FIG. 68 shows a bottom plan view of a cloud gaming controller 1102 of acloud gaming system 1100. Said cloud gaming controller 1102 is inelectronic communication with said Wi-Fi TV 1022 (of FIG. 67 ), andincludes at least, but is not limited to, a cover portion 1104 and abase portion 1106. The cover portion 1104 when secured to the baseportion 1106 forms a video game controller housing 1108 (also referredto herein as controller housing 1108). The communication between theWi-Fi TV 1022 and the cloud gaming controller 1102 is achieved via awired connection circuit 1110, however as one skilled in the artunderstands, communication between the Wi-Fi TV 1022 and the cloudgaming controller 1012 may be achieved wirelessly. The wired connectioncircuit 1110 preferably includes a power and signal cable 1112 (alsoreferred to herein as cable 1112). Cable 1112 preferably provides aconnector 1114, which is specifically configured to interface with acloud gaming communication port 1026 (of FIG. 67 ) as well as aninterface connector 1010. Said interface connector 1010 provides apredetermined number of contacts including, but not limited to, a powercontact and a ground contact. The interface connector 1010 isspecifically configured to interface with a mating connector 940 (ofFIG. 65 ). Said mating connector 940 is mounted on the printed circuitboard 932/266 (of FIG. 65 ), and mechanically and electronicallycommunicate with the operating system detection integrated circuit 938(of FIG. 65 ).

FIG. 69 is a block diagram of a video game controller 1116 in electroniccommunication with a smart device (e.g., smart device 102). Said videogame controller 1116 includes a processor 1118 with embedded operatingsystem detection firmware 1120. Said processor 1118 further includes acomputer portion 1122 and a memory portion, said memory portion storesmultiple firmware sets. When said video game controller 1116 isconnected to said smart device, said embedded operating system detectionfirmware 1120 detects which operating system, of a plurality of smartdevice operating systems, operates said smart device. Said embeddedoperating system detection firmware 1120 further selects, from saidmultiple firmware sets stored in said memory 1124 of said processor1118, a firmware set compatible with said detected operating system ofsaid smart device. Said embedded operating system detection firmware1120 still further directs loading of said selected firmware set ontosaid computing portion 1122 of said processor 1118. Said selectedfirmware set actively interacts with said detected operating system ofsaid smart device during game play of a video game, said video gamedisplayed on a viewing screen of said smart device.

It is to be understood that even though numerous characteristics andconfigurations of various embodiments of the present invention have beenset forth in the foregoing description, together with details of thestructure and function of various embodiments of the invention, thisdetailed description is illustrative only, and changes may be made indetail, especially in matters of structure and arrangements of partswithin the principles of the present invention to the full extentindicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which theappended claims are expressed. For example, the elements may varydepending on the particular computing device without departing from thespirit and scope of the present invention.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A video gaming system, comprising: a pairof video game controller input modules of a video game controllernon-removably secured to a rigid, fixed length bridge section; a smartdevice holder attached to the rigid, fixed length bridge section; asmart device secured by the smart device holder whereby the smart deviceis in non-contact adjacency with the rigid, fixed length bridge sectionsuch that an entire back surface of the smart device lies fixed in aplane, wherein said plane is parallel to a front surface of the rigid,fixed length bridge section; a touch sensitive screen in electroniccommunication with a first video game controller input module of thepair of video game controller input modules; and wherein said video gamecontroller further comprising an operating system detection circuit inelectronic communication with said smart device.
 2. The video gamingsystem of claim 1, in which said rigid, fixed length bridge sectionprovides a data conductor between each video game controller inputmodule of the pair of video game controller input modules, said dataconductor passes video game input signals from one video game controllerinput module of the pair of video game controller input modules to theother video game controller input module of the pair of video gamecontroller input modules, wherein said video game input signals aregenerated by way of a user activating an input device of a plurality ofinput devices, said plurality input devices provided by said pair ofvideo game controller input modules.
 3. The video gaming system of claim2, in which said smart device includes at least: a processor, anoperating system and a display screen, said operating system operatessaid smart device, said processor holds at least a graphics portion of avideo game and displays an image of said video game on said displayscreen, where upon receipt of a first video game input signal of saidvideo game input signals said processor alters said image on saiddisplay screen.
 4. The video gaming system of claim 1, furthercomprising, a second touch sensitive screen in electronic communicationwith a second video game controller input module of the pair of videogame controller input modules, whereby each of said touch sensitivescreen and said second touch sensitive screen are in electroniccommunication with, and mechanically secured to, their respective videogame controller input modules, wherein each touch sensitive screengenerates a video game input signal in a plurality of ways, dependingon: a direction of a swipe of a directionally centric swipe, and tappingon a top portion, or a bottom portion of said touch sensitive screen,wherein said tapping on said top portion, or said bottom portion of saidtouch sensitive screen, produces an alternate signal type from a signaltype attained by said directionally centric swipe, where upon receipt ofsaid video game input signal from said video game controller, said videogame controller passes said video game input signal to a processor ofsaid smart device, in which said smart device includes at least: saidprocessor; an operating system; and a display screen, wherein saidoperating system operates said smart device, said processor holds atleast a graphics portion of a video game and displays an image of saidvideo game on said display screen, where upon receipt of said video gameinput signal from said video game, said processor alters said image onsaid display screen.
 5. The video gaming system of claim 1, wherein saidvideo game controller provides: a processor in electronic communicationwith said smart device, said processor includes at least a computingportion and a memory portion, wherein said computing portion is inelectronic communication with said operating system detection circuit,and in which said video gaming system further comprising: a wiredconnection circuit, said wired connection circuit comprising: a firstcombination data/power connector in electronic communication with saidsmart device; a second combination data/power connector in electroniccommunication with said video game controller; and a power and signalcable disposed between and in electronic communication with each saidfirst and second combination data/power connector; and an operatingsystem detection integrated circuit (“detection IC”) of said operatingsystem detection circuit, said detection IC is in electroniccommunication with said second combination data/power connector, and infurther electronic communication with said processor provided by saidvideo game controller, said memory portion stores multiple differentfirmware sets, wherein upon when said video game controller is connectedto said smart device, said detection IC detects which operating systemsof a plurality of smart device operating systems operates said smartdevice as a detected operating system of the smart device, and from saidmultiple firmware sets stored in said memory portion, said detection ICselects a firmware set compatible with said detected operating system ofsaid smart device as a selected firmware set, said detection IC furtherdirects loading of said selected firmware set onto said computingportion of said processor, said selected firmware set actively interactswith said operating system of said smart device during game play of avideo game, said video game displayed on a viewing screen of said smartdevice.
 6. A video gaming system, comprising: a pair of video gamecontroller input modules of a video game controller non-removablysecured to a rigid, fixed length bridge section; a smart device holderattached to the rigid, fixed length bridge section; a smart devicesecured by the smart device holder whereby the smart device is innon-contact adjacency with the rigid, fixed length bridge section suchthat an entire back surface of the smart device lies fixed in a plane,wherein said plane is parallel to a front surface of the rigid, fixedlength bridge section; a touch sensitive screen in electroniccommunication with a first video game controller input module of thepair of video game controller input modules; and a processor provided bysaid video game controller, said processor in electrical communicationwith said smart device, said processor includes an embedded operatingsystem detection firmware program.
 7. The video gaming system of claim6, in which said rigid, fixed length bridge section provides a dataconductor between each video game controller input module of the pair ofvideo game controller input modules, the data conductor passes videogame input signals from one video game controller input module of thepair of video game controller input modules to the other video gamecontroller input module of the pair of video game controller inputmodules, wherein said video game input signals are generated by way of auser activating an input device of a plurality of input devices, saidplurality input devices provided by said pair of video game controllerinput modules.
 8. The video gaming system of claim 7, in which saidsmart device includes at least: a processor, an operating system and adisplay screen, said operating system operates said smart device, saidprocessor holds at least a graphics portion of a video game and displaysan image of said video game on said display screen, where upon receiptof a video game input signal of said video game input signals saidprocessor alters said image on said display screen, said processor is inelectronic communication with said video game controller.
 9. The videogaming system of claim 6, further comprising: a second touch sensitivescreen in electronic communication with a second video game controllerinput module of the pair of video game controller input modules, wherebyeach of said touch sensitive screen and said second touch sensitivescreen are in electronic communication with, and mechanically securedto, their respective video game controller input modules; wherein eachtouch sensitive screen generates a video game input signal in aplurality of ways comprising: a direction of a swipe of a directionallycentric swipe; and a tapping on a top portion, or tapping on a bottomportion of said touch sensitive screen, wherein said tapping on said topportion, or tapping on said bottom portion of said touch sensitivescreen produces an alternate signal type from a signal type obtained bysaid directionally centric swipe, wherein upon receipt of said videogame input signal from said video game controller, said video gamecontroller passes said video game input signal to a processor of saidsmart device; and in which said smart device includes at least: anoperating system; and a display screen, said operating system operatessaid smart device, said processor further holds at least a graphicsportion of a video game and displays an image of said video game on saiddisplay screen, where upon receipt of said video game input signal fromsaid video game, said processor alters said image on said displayscreen.
 10. The video gaming system of claim 6, wherein said video gamecontroller provides said processor in electronic communication with saidsmart device, said processor includes at least a computing portion, amemory portion, and said embedded operating system detection firmwareprogram; wherein multiple different firmware sets are stored in saidmemory portion, said memory portion is in electronic communication withsaid computing portion of said processor, said video gaming systemfurther comprising: a wired connection circuit, said wired connectioncircuit comprising: a first combination data/power connector inelectronic communication with said smart device; a second combinationdata/power connector in electronic communication with said gamecontroller; a power and signal cable disposed between and in electroniccommunication with each said first and second combination data/powerconnectors; and wherein said computer portion is in electroniccommunication with said second combination data/power connector; whensaid video game controller is connected to said smart device, saidembedded operating system detection firmware program: detects whichoperating system, of a plurality of available smart device operatingsystems, operates said smart device as a detected operating system ofsaid smart device, selects, from said multiple firmware sets stored insaid memory of said processor, a firmware set compatible with saiddetected operating system of said smart device; and directs loading ofsaid selected firmware set onto said computing portion of saidprocessor, said selected firmware set actively interacts with saiddetected operating system of said smart device during game play of avideo game, said video game displayed on a viewing screen of said smartdevice.